Bulls win over Pistons

CHICAGO - Derrick Rose returned to the Bulls lineup scoring 24 points and dishing out 7 assists as the Bulls defeated the Pistons 102-91 Monday night at the United Center.

Pau Gasol added 17 points and 15 rebounds tallying his fifth double double in eight games in the 2014-15 campaign.

The Bulls led 60-44 at the break after shooting 52.9% while holding Detroit to just 35.6%.

Having been outrebounded in the previous six contests, the Bulls held a 29-22 advantage on the glass at intermission and 49-46 overall.

The visitors cut into the lead in the 3rd ourscoring Chicago 26-18, holding the Bulls to a 31.3 field goal percentage in the frame.

The Pistons closed within two points late in final quarter, but the Bulls responded with a Gasol jumper and three pointer from Jimmy Butler to create space. Later, Butler forced a turnover and Rose capitalized with a bucket that all but clinched the sixth victory for Chicago.

Triple Double watch was on as Joakim Noah recorded 13 points, 14 rebounds, and 6 assists.

As part of NBA Cares "Hoops For Troops" initiative, the Bulls welcomed more than 100 veterans and active members of the military with a special pre-game flag ceremony and special rendition of the National Anthem sung by military veteran Rick Schroedar.

Next, the 6-2 Bulls travel to Toronto Thursday night to face the Raptors who sit atop the East with a 6-1 record.